ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
The Tasmanian Parliament is expected to pass a no-confidence motion against Premier Jeremy Rockliff this afternoon, in what experts are describing as the most dramatic political showdown since the state outlawed the use of the “sinful” reverse cowgirl sex position in 2002.
After months of turmoil over ferry delays, debt blowouts, a controversial stadium plan, and murky asset sales, the state’s crossbench appears set to withdraw its support for the minority Liberal government. The decisive move was made after a tense session last night around the Legislative Council’s ceremonial firepit, where the chamber debated Rockliff’s future between sips of straight gin and lashings of smoked wallaby.
Independent MPs Craig Garland and Kristie Johnston, as well as Jacqui Lambie Network member Andrew Jenner, have confirmed their support for the motion, joining the Greens and Labor opposition. The Premier now appears certain to lose the numbers and be sent off the island.
Labor leader Dean Winter said Rockliff had mismanaged the Apple Isle’s economy and ignored repeated warnings from the state’s critical whale oil manufacturers and all-powerful Lighthouse Keepers Union (LKU).
“The Spirit of Tasmania can’t cross the Bass Strait without the LKU, the budget’s gone bust, and he wants to sell our last remaining tin mine,” said Winter.
If the motion succeeds, Tasmania could return to the polls for the second time in just over a year. Rockliff warned such an election would be “chaotic and unnecessary,” especially given the upcoming firewood rationing referendum.
The vote is scheduled to take place at dusk, once the signal smoke clears.
More to come.
